DETROIT—Matrix Theatre Company has announced special post-show events for its production of 2.5 Minute Ride by Lisa Kron, scheduled to take place after individual performances throughout the run. This additional programming is designed to allow audiences the opportunity to engage with the subjects and themes that the production addresses in a fun and engaging environment. All events are free with the price of admission.

“For a number of seasons, we’ve crafted diverse, exciting post-show events that delight our audiences,” said Megan Buckley-Ball, artistic director. “At Matrix, we believe the experience doesn’t end when the lights come up and the show is over; the conversation is just beginning. These events give our audiences unique experiences and help them digest and further explore the production they’ve just witnessed.”

2.5 Minute Ride address themes and subjects as varied as family dynamics, personal identity, the Holocaust, the LGBT experience, and more. The wide-ranging events will explore these topics in both light-hearted and more serious manners.

• Opening Night Reception, Friday, November 11. Mix and mingle with the cast and creative team and discuss the production while enjoying appetizers and desserts.
• Discussion and Dialogue with Mark Erwin-McCormick of Ruth Ellis Center, Friday, November 18. Learn more about the epidemic of LGBTQ youth homelessness in the US and how Detroit’s Ruth Ellis Center is leading the efforts to address this crisis.
• Talkback with the actress and director, Sunday, November 27. Actress Luna Alexander and director David Wolber with a brief discussion where audiences will have the opportunity to ask questions during a Q and A session.
• Managing Holiday Stress: A Conversation with Social Workers*, Friday, December 2. A brief, informative discussion facilitated by two social workers, Roberta Walker and Bob O’Brien about strategies for navigating the season’s most difficult sticky situations, (and, much like the play, add a dash of humor here and there). *Disclaimer: The strategies and general advice shared during this event should not be considered professional advice or therapy by anyone in attendance.
• The Original Post-Show Pub Trivia, Saturday, December 3. Libations and a trivia session featuring questions inspired by the production and related themes. Audience members form teams to play for bragging rights and fun. The competition can be fierce.

In addition to these events, Matrix Theatre Company has partnered with Ruth Ellis Center (REC) to solicit donations on behalf of the social service organization. Ruth Ellis Center exists to provide short-term and long-term residential safe space and support services for runaway, homeless, and at-risk lesbian, gay, bi-attractional, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth. Matrix will accept donated items for REC at the theatre on performances dates. Acceptable items for donation are new, in-package men’s and women’s underwear, socks, hats, disposable hand warmers, sweaters, sweatshirts, jackets, and hoodies.

Celebrating more than 25 years as a non-profit community-based theatre, Matrix Theatre Company is located in southwest Detroit and uses the transformative power of theatre to change lives, build community and foster social justice.

Photo: Luna Alexander is Lisa Kron in 2.5 Minute Ride. Photo credit: Megan Buckley-Ball